Sheffield United: Does Scougall start against Swindon?

Stefan Scougall could be tasked with firing Sheffield United into the League One play-off final at Wembley, manager Nigel Clough has acknowledged, following his virtuoso performance against Chesterfield, writes James Shield.

Clough revealed Bramall Lane’s coaching staff are giving serious consideration to handing the young Scot a starting role during the first leg of United’s semi-final with Swindon Town on Thursday after watching him impress on his return from injury.

Scougall, who has been troubled by a series of niggling complaints since the turn of the year, was withdrawn during the second-half of the 1-1 draw with Chesterfield which saw the hosts secure fifth position in the table.

“Scougall was the major plus for us,” Clough acknowledged. “He’s been there or there abouts for a while after injury.

“He went off when he felt a bit of cramp, there was no point in taking any risks, but I thought he was very good.”

Scougall, aged 22, was a key figure in the United team which reached the last four of the FA Cup last season after arriving from Livingston.

Speaking earlier this term, Clough said: “We all know that Stefan is an important player for us. We’ve all seen what he is capable of and how he can cause problems for the opposition.

“Like a lot of our lads, Stefan is young but he’s already gaining a lot of good experience. That should stand him, and us, in good stead going forward.”

United’s medical staff will assess Scougall’s condition before training tomorrow but Chris Basham (knee) and Paul Coutts (hamstring) are both expected to receive the all-clear after missing the visit of Chesterfield as a precautionary measure.

Meanwhile, United have slashed ticket prices for the first-leg against Swindon to £15 adults, £10 concessions and £5 for under-17’s.